Welcome to the midpoint of our countdown of 2013’s best tunes from Eurovision artists.So far we’ve had songs from the likes of Celine Dion, Emmelie De Forest and Marco Mengoni. For a full catchup click on the links below:
But there’s still loads more to come. As for today’s list, we have our first Eurovision band. And a familiar face pops up in the rankings for a second time.
15. “La Vita e Bella” – Mandinga
What we said: Although the title is in Italian, the lyrics are in Romanian and speak of how beautiful life is when you’re in love. The video is filled with behind-the-scenes images of the group traveling and offers a glimpse into the life of the successful Romanian band. Londoners may recognize the south bank of the Thames River near Waterloo Station. For Mandinga, the world is their playground! (Bogdan)
14. “Crime” – Robin Stjernberg
What we said: Now, we threw a lot of shade at Robin for the ineffective choreography he utilised in Malmo, and for the cracks in his voice throughout his live performances. The other day Robin rocked his new single on Swedish TV, though, and I’ve gotta say I wish he had sung this at ESC instead. “Crime” is the type of song a male Kelly Clarkson would sing, and that’s a good thing. Robin tells us all that he’s sick and tired of putting up with crap. He takes a stand for himself, and in doing so he earns my respect. (Vebooboo)
13. “L.O.V.E.” – Soluna Samay
What we said: After a brief hiatus, Soluna is back with her attempt at a new feminist anthem. Throughout the song she sings of how if women were in charge there would be world peace. However, at the same time she takes a swipe at the perceived cattiness and bitchiness of certain women. Luckily Soluna has the perfect solution – love. (Padraig)
12. “Wigger”- Anouk
What we said: The lyrics, maybe even more powerful than the song, speak of an independent woman who is proud to be a true blond and a wigger at the same time, a “rock ‘n soul” artist who dismisses haters, claiming that “it ain’t worth it”. As always, the no-nonsense Anouk speaks (or, rather, sings) her mind and we can’t help loving her. (Bogdan)
11. “Let it Go” – Anna Rossinelli
What we said: [“Let it Go”] is entirely self composed and arranged. This has made the band more authentic than ever, with a smoother sound with just a hint of roughness. Without denying their gypsy roots they have made great progress in developing and maturing their style; easy listening yet equally danceable. (Deban)
So now that we’ve passed the half way point in our countdown, are y’all impressed so far? Who’ll be in the top 10? Could Robin make a 3rd appearance? Check back tomorrow, and while you’re waiting comment below.
To read all of our reviews from throughout the year click here.
Padraig Jude contributed this report from Ireland. Follow him on Twitter at @PadraigJude. And while you’re at it, like our Facebook page to stay up-to-date with the latest Eurovision news and gossip.
Cover Photo: TheScore.ie
Yay for Robin, Mandinga and Soluna! There’s some great tracks in this coundown.
I expect Severina’s Hurem in top 10. End of story.
Robin needs to fire his makeup artist. Way too much foundation, lipstick, mascara, everything on his face, unless he’s going for the girl look. I on the other hand loved his song, “You” and was actually my favorite for Eurovision 2013 over Emmelie’s “Only Teardrops”. But to each his own.